Mechanical Takeoff Associate
About Comfort Systems USA Mid South:
Comfort Systems USA Mid South is a leading building and service provider for HVAC, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, with deep roots in Alabama and a track record of delivering high-performance mechanical solutions for healthcare, education, retail, office buildings, data centers and more. We operate as an independent entity within Comfort Systems USA’s national network of operating companies.
Overview:
Comfort Systems USA Mid South is seeking a detail-oriented Mechanical Takeoff Associate (Ductwork & Piping) to assist in the development of accurate and competitive estimates for commercial and industrial projects. This position will work under the direct supervision of the Head of Estimating and collaborate with the Preconstruction Team, Project Management Team, CAD/BIM Department and Fabrication Departments to quantify ductwork and piping scopes, structure labor and material pricing, and identify value options that support safe, efficient, on-time project delivery. The ideal candidate brings strong plan/spec takeoff skills, a sound grasp of industry standards, and the ability to communicate clearly with trade partners and internal teams. Experience working in the field will be considered a strong plus for candidates seeking this position.
Key Duties:
- Manage and maintain all bid documents.
- Perform quantity takeoffs for sheet-metal ductwork (pounds by pressure class, fittings, accessories) and piping systems (LF by material, valves, specialties) using digital plans, specs, and addenda.
- Assist in building detailed estimates: apply labor units and productivity factors; secure material, equipment, and subcontractor quotes for estimates; structure alternates and unit prices.
- Lead vendor/subcontractor outreach; issue RFPs, analyze proposals, and level scope inclusions/exclusions.
- Participate in design-assist/GMP budgeting and value engineering; provide cost/constructability feedback to internal teams and clients.
- Coordinate with CAD/BIM and Fabrication to align model-based quantities, spools, and shop strategies with estimate assumptions.
- Prepare estimate material and labor summaries; maintain bid logs and historical cost data for continuous improvement.
- Attend pre-bid site walks; incorporate site logistics, safety, and phasing into estimates.
- Support smooth handoff to Operations Team after project is secured (estimate review, unit rates, alternates, vendor selections, and clarifications).
- Maintain and regularly update internal estimating material and labor data bases.
Qualifications:
- 3–5 years of mechanical estimating experience with direct focus on ductwork and mechanical piping for commercial/industrial projects.
- Proficient reading plans/specs, and shop drawings; strong knowledge of mechanical systems, scope boundaries, and trade coordination.
- Working familiarity with relevant construction standards and estimating references.
- Tools: Bluebeam and one or more takeoff/estimating platforms (e.g., FastDUCT/FastPIPE, Trimble/Autobid, PlanSwift/OST), REVIT, and strong Excel.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills.
- Education: High school diploma required; A.S./B.S. in Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field preferred desired, but not required. Knowledge gained from actual field working experience will take precedent over advanced degree for this position.
Nice to Have:
- Experience collaborating with CAD/BIM teams and fabrication shops.
- Familiarity with Workday or similar ERP.
- Familiarity with Pro Core.
- Certifications: OSHA-10; ASPE/Certified Plumbing Estimator (CPE) or similar a plus.
- Experience with use of on-screen takeoff and estimating software
What We Offer:
- Competitive pay and incentives
- Medical, Vision, Dental
- Paid holidays and generous PTO
- 401(k) Plan with multiple investment options
- Training and Development Programs
- Company-paid Employee Assistance Program
- Employee discount programs
- Company-paid and voluntary life insurance
- Company-paid and voluntary AD&D
- Company-paid short-term disability and voluntary long-term disability
- Healthcare reimbursement and dependent care reimbursement accounts
- Health savings account with company contributions
- Vehicle discount purchase programs
Disclaimer
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this job. They are not designed to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required. Duties outside normal responsibilities may be assigned as needed.
Comfort Systems USA, Inc. and all subsidiaries are equal opportunity employers in all aspects of employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type for all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment.